Questions raised when constructing a retaining wall in Karamba.

Hi everyone, we are 2 students currently writting our Bachelors thesis. In the project we are creating a retaining wall using Karamba and Grasshopper. 

We have been in touch with Clemens regarding a variety of questions e.g. non-linear load createad by the earthpreassure acting upon the retaining wall and have been aided in some issues we have encountered. He has also aided us in the use of Shell-elements and how to create loads acting in an "in-plane" direction upon the height of the Shell elements cross section. 

We have created this discussion to share the answers we have gotten from Clemens so far, and open up the duscussion for the member of this forum so we can all benefit if more issues arise. 

Questions & Answers so far:

Q1: How can we crate a non-linear load representing the loads from Earth-pressure? 

A: See attachment 1

Q2: Why does the loads vary in the corners (naked edges) of the structure? 

A: The reason for the point loads at the naked edges being only half of what they are on the inside is their reduced area of influence from which the point loads are calculated.

Q3: How can we apply loads acting upon a Shells cross section in the direction of the Shell? 

A: Add two vertical Shells at the ends of the Foundation and load these.

We have also attached a picture of what we are trying to achieve with the horisontal loads on the retaining wall. Keep in mind that there will be an additional constant horisontal linear-load acting on the back side of the wall which originates from a trafic load or the likes of that. (Vertical loads are not included)

Cheers

/Jajjan